Expandable intervertebral implant

ABSTRACT

A method of inserting an expandable intervertebral implant is disclosed. The implant preferably includes first and second members capable of being expanded upon movement of first and second wedges. The first and second wedges, while being capable of moving with respect to each other and the first and second members are also preferably attached to the first and second members. In addition, the first and second wedges are preferably capable of moving only in a first direction, while movement in a second direction is inhibited. The first and second wedges are also preferably prevented from torsionally moving with respect to the first and second members.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an expandable intervertebral implant, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention shown in an unexpanded state.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 1, shown in an expanded state.

FIG. 3 is a top view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 1, the bottom view being a mirror image thereof.

FIG. 4 a top view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 2, the bottom view being a mirror image thereof.

FIG. 5 is a left-side view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 1, the right-side view being a mirror image thereof.

FIG. 6 is a left-side view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 2, the right-side view being a mirror image thereof.

FIG. 7 is a rear view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a rear view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 1; and,

FIG. 10 is a front view of the expandable intervertebral implant shown in FIG. 2. 

The ornamental design for an expandable intervertebral implant, as shown and described. 